Customers from Surrey Choices teed up for a day of sporting fun when they met professional golfer Henni Zuel at a local golf club last week.
The team of enthusiastic golf players from the Woodmansterne Project, met the 25-year-old Ladies’ European Tour player at Epsom Golf Club on Wednesday July 29.
The Woodmansterne Project, run by Surrey Choices, offers help and support to adults with a variety of learning difficulties and disabilities across the Woodmansterne area.
Staff started a golf group at the project in May in conjunction with Community Golf – an organisation that delivers a diverse range of golf activation projects to inspire people of all abilities and ages to get involved in the game.
Despite the fact that most of the Woodmansterne team had never picked up a golf club before, the team has gone from strength to strength since it was formed.
Their skills and enthusiasm culminated in them winning a mini golf tournament at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which was organised by Community Golf for teams they had been working with from schools, colleges and community groups.
Following their win, Henni Zuel – whom they met at the competition – invited them down to Epsom Golf Club as guests to spend the day with her.
Professional golfer Henni was the youngest ever player to join the Ladies European Tour as an amateur. She was a nominee for Britain’s Best Awards for Home Grown Talent and entered the professional Ladies European Tour after turning pro in 2008.
Woodmansterne Project senior day service officer, David Lawrence, said the golf group had been brilliant for their customers.
“It’s been such an exciting project to be a part of,” said David.
“The group has taken part every Wednesday, and playing golf has helped boost their confidence, self-esteem, communication skills and co-ordination. They have really developed well as players over the weeks and it has encouraged a great sense of teamwork and achievement.
“I have worked with people with disabilities for many years and this project has been one of the most memorable. People have really enjoyed it and it has made much more of a positive impact than I could have imagined.
“It was a truly magical moment when they won the mini tournament – everyone was very proud.
“I am thrilled that our customers had the opportunity to spend the day with Henni at Epsom, they had a great time. The day had a really positive impact on the group and helped them to develop further.”
For more information on Surrey Choices or the Woodmansterne Project, visit www.surreychoices.com or call 01483 519153.